Can durable spare parts for ships actually be printed? The port of Rotterdam intends to find out with its project "3D Printing of Maritime Spare Parts".
The pilot project was initiated and is lead by InnovationQuarter in cooperation with the Rotterdam Port Authority and RDM Makerspace. Over the summer, a consortium of 27 port related companies will test the use of 3D printing for parts such as screws, washers and fluid conductors. The results of the project will be announced in September.
3D Printing Database
From thirty possible spare parts, four were selected. Apart from just printing these parts, the parts will also be tested to determine whether they are durable enough to be applied in practice. The companies involved will also put together a database which will indicate which parts are available for 3D printing now, in the short term or in the future. This database will help maritime companies when selecting materials, production methods and finishing aspects.
Presentation at World Port Days
Actual 3D printing of the spare parts will take place in July and August. In September the products will be tested. Preliminary results will be presented at the World Port Days in Rotterdam (4-6 September), the final results will be presented at a 3D printing conference to be held in the port of Rotterdam in autumn.
Picture: SLS 3D printed screw (by Van Dalen Products).
